The Mystery of Premature Birth

Finding answers to the problem of premature birth is an urgent medical challenge. Premature birth is the leading killer of newborns and a major cause of lasting disabilities. 

Setting the National Research Agenda

The March of Dimes research agenda includes issues such as genetics, racial and ethnic differences, the role of infection and stress, and promising treatments.

Prematurity Research Initiative: Grantees, 2009

In February 2009, the March of Dimes Prematurity Research Initiative (PRI) awarded almost $2.7 million to seven researchers. Since it began in 2005, PRI has distributed almost $14 million. The goal is to encourage research aimed at predicting or preventing preterm birth.

Prematurity Research Initiative: Grantees, 2008

In February 2008, the March of Dimes Foundation awarded $3.5 million to 10 scientists who are trying to stem the growing pace of preterm birth. Since 2005, the March of Dimes has committed  $11 million to prematurity research.

Prematurity Research Initiative: Grantees, 2007

In 2007, the March of Dimes awarded eight new grants that address the role of infection in preterm labor, disturbances of the circadian clock, and genetic and environmental factors.

Prematurity Research Initiative: Grantees, 2006

In 2006, the March of Dimes awarded six new grants that address genetic patterns, infection, and the hormone progesterone.

Prematurity Research Initiative: Grantees, 2005

In 2005, the March of Dimes awarded the first Prematurity Research Initiative grants to learn more about the causes of prematurity.

Research and Treatment Milestones

The March of Dimes 65-year track record of success includes many achievements that have helped save premature babies.